Domestic Tourism Research Articles

Projecting destinations via organic tourist videos: the role of appearance, production and content

ABSTRACT Although organic tourist videos on social media have been established as prominent agents of destination image formation, the influence of social media posted vlogs on potential tourists’ destination image remains insufficiently explored. Meanwhile, it is crucial to comprehend the underlying mechanisms that shape this process, especially how potential tourist forms their conative image of destination. Video elicitation interviews using two unsponsored YouTube videos of Raja Ampat, Indonesia were conducted with domestic (Indonesian = 31) and international (British = 30) potential tourists. Findings indicated technical aspects of the videos influence potential tourists’ perceptions of the video authenticity and credibility. Consequently, this shapes their impression of the destination and their desire to seek further information. The study offers a holistic understanding of the role of technical elements of organic travel vlogs on audience engagement and image formation of prospective tourists from two different nationalities. It also contributes new insights into the implementation of destination branding and marketing practice via authentic, credible and responsible vlogs that help boost community benefits.

Understanding the Determinants of Revisit Intentions in Wellness Tourism Through Domestic and Global Lenses

ABSTRACT This study investigates the determinants of tourist revisit intentions within the domain of wellness tourism, focusing on distinctions between domestic and foreign tourists through the amalgamation of the Elaboration Likelihood Model (ELM) and Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). Data from 196 foreign tourists and 187 domestic tourists were analyzed through Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) and Multi-Group Analysis (MGA) to test the hypotheses proposed for this study. Results show that perceived benefits and word of mouth strongly affect visitors’ attitudes toward wellness tourism. Additionally, visitors’ attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control significantly influence their intentions to revisit. Variations between domestic and foreign tourists were noted: perceived benefits have a greater impact on foreign tourists’ attitudes, while word of mouth is more influential among domestic tourists. However, no significant differences were found in how perceived behavioral control and attitudes affect revisit intentions across tourist types. These findings contribute valuable insights to frame marketing strategies that enhance visitor revisit intention in the wellness tourism industry.

Broadening tourism experience and destination image

Although previous studies deal with tourism experience, destination image and related outcomes, this study innovates by elaborating on a more comprehensive view of the tourism experience and destination image. Guided by suggestions for more research in the relevant literature, this study examines the correlation between tourism experience, experiential destination image, tourism memory, satisfaction and loyalty and explores domestic and international tourists. The data were collected from tourists visiting the Algarve, Portugal, in 2021. A multi-group analysis determined the main differences between domestic and international tourists. The results show that the tourist experience has five dimensions: active learning, emotional engagement, passive entertainment, immersive escape, and aesthetic appeal. Furthermore, tourism experiences of both domestic and international tourists positively affect the cognitive image of the Algarve. There is a significant difference among domestic and international tourists regarding the impact of tourism memory on tourists' loyalty. Theoretical and managerial implications, limitations, and potential directions for future research are discussed.

LOYALITAS WISATAWAN TERHADAP KOTA BATAM SEBAGAI DESTINASI WISATA

Batam City is one of the areas that is a favorite tourist destination for domestic and foreign tourists. However, Batam City is considered better known as a transit city before tourists visit Singapore and Malaysia. This study aims to analyze the effect of destination performance and destination image on tourist satisfaction and loyalty to Batam City as a destination. This type of research is quantitative. The respondents of the study were tourists who had visited Batam City more than twice. The collection of research data using questionnaires and the collected data was analyzed using the SEM-PLS approach and assisted by SMARTPLS statistical software. The results of the study indicate that destination performance has an influence on destination image. Destination performance has a significant influence on tourist satisfaction with Batam City, while destination image has no influence on tourist satisfaction with Batam City. The results of this study also prove that satisfaction has a significant influence on tourist loyalty to Batam City as a tourist destination. The results of this study are expected to contribute to stakeholders to make strategic policies in increasing tourist loyalty to Batam City as a tourist destination.

Ski Resort vs. Altitude and Latitude: Competitiveness from the Perspective of the Consumers

Serbian ski resorts’ altitude and latitude are lower than in most European ski resorts. In the context of climate change and the Serbian Government’s plans to keep opening new ski resorts, this study examines the competitiveness of Serbian ski resorts in the eyes of domestic tourists, hence the justification of new developments. This research was carried out in three steps: a statistical analysis of a survey conducted among domestic tourists, an interpretation of the context based on responses to open-ended questions, and a comparison of Serbia’s most popular ski resorts with leading ski resorts in Austria, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Italy, and France. The results showed that Serbian tourists focus on value for money, skiing, and ski infrastructure quality rather than additional activities such as cultural tours, entertainment, or wellness. In the context of international discussions on climate change impacts, environmental consequences of ski resorts, and survey results, we recommend that future strategies of ski resort operators in Serbia focus on developing and promoting complementary activities to winter sports and prioritizing the redevelopment of existing ski resorts rather than constructing new ones.

Analisis Minat Pengunjung Terhadap Aktivitas Berkuda Di Bromo

The Bromo area, as one of the popular tourist destinations in Indonesia, offers a variety of interesting activities, including horse riding, which not only provides a unique experience for tourists, but also contributes significantly to the local economy. This research aims to explore the factors that influence visitors' interest in horse riding activities in the Bromo area and their implications for the management of tourist destinations. Horse riding activities in Bromo attract the attention of domestic and foreign tourists, increasing their satisfaction through deep emotional experiences amidst stunning natural views. Factors that influence visitor interest include comfort, safety, and the quality of the facilities provided. This research also shows that equestrian activities not only impact the local economy, but also contribute to cultural and environmental preservation. On the other hand, there are challenges such as high horse riding fees, which can limit accessibility for some tourists. Trekking activities are an alternative for tourists who want to experience direct contact with nature. These two activities complement each other in increasing the attractiveness of the Bromo area as a tourist destination. These findings provide insight for tourism managers to develop sustainable tourism, improve the welfare of local communities, and strengthen tourist attractions by paying attention to safety, security, comfort and accessibility factors for visitors.

The polycentric consumer in tourism: ethnocentrism and xenocentrism profiles’ interplay with authenticity in tourists’ destination choices

PurposeConsumer centrism’s perspectives serve as crucial determinants in decision-making processes, yet the burgeoning discourse on global marketing’s interplay with tourism scarcely addresses the nuanced interconnections between consumer dispositions toward global or local destinations, which assert a global preference bias in developing countries and their predilections for tourist destination selection. This study aims to elucidate the dynamics between ethnocentric and xenocentric dispositions and the selection of domestic tourist locales within developing countries, conditioned to perceived authentic experiences.Design/methodology/approachBased on a sample of 264 tourists, we employed structural equation modeling and mediation analysis to determine the direct and indirect interplay of consumer centrism and the mechanisms of authenticity for destination choice and latent class analysis to unveil consumer heterogeneous profiles and their implications.FindingsThe results suggest the existence of a polycentric consumer due to the strong preference for domestic destinations among ethnocentric consumers. While xenocentrism did not have a similar direct impact, its influence on local destination choice emerged through the mediating effect of perceived authenticity. This finding provides evidence for the assumption of a global preference bias in developing nations, even within tourism contexts. Additionally, we identified four distinct heterogeneous tourist profiles based on consumer inclinations toward global and local aspects, allowing for a detailed exploration of their specific influences on tourism destinations.Practical implicationsEffective tourism strategies in developing countries can boost the economy based on authenticity, creating experiences that consider the duality of tourist inclinations and promoting cultural preservation. Practical examples include cultural events, themed tours, personalized marketing, influencer partnerships, social media engagement and loyalty programs, all aimed at engaging diverse consumer groups and strengthening consumer connections toward the local and xenocentric dispositions.Originality/valueThe study advances our understanding by proposing a polycentric profile of consumer inclinations toward tourism in developing countries, driven by the perceived authenticity of destinations. This profile highlights the nuanced interplay between ethnocentric and xenocentric dispositions, illustrating how local and global preferences coexist and influence travel decisions. By emphasizing the role of authenticity, the study provides valuable insights into the factors shaping tourism behaviors in developing countries.

Exploring the spatial patterns and influencing factors of rural tourism development in Hainan Province of China

Hainan Province is a major domestic tourism destination in China, with rural tourism playing a key role in its development. This study analyzes the spatial distribution of 154 rural tourism sites across Hainan, examining regional balance, hotspots, and influencing factors such as transportation infrastructure, economic conditions, and A-level tourist attractions. Results show a clear spatial clustering of sites, with a strong concentration in the east and more dispersed patterns in the west. Economic growth and tourism sector development are identified as key factors influencing the “coconut-level” ratings. The study offers policy recommendations to promote sustainable rural tourism, including leveraging regional advantages, enhancing transportation connectivity, and improving tourism services and infrastructure. It also calls for investment in grassroots tourism projects and strengthening regional complementarity to foster balanced and equitable growth. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and tourism planners seeking to integrate rural tourism into broader sustainable development strategies.

Does the origin of tourism matter for poverty reduction? Evidence from Peruvian’s department, 2003–2022

ABSTRACT The aim of this paper is to study whether the origin of tourism, either domestic or foreign, has varying effects on poverty reduction. Therefore, the paper employs a Panel Autoregressive Distributed Lag (PARDL) model for 24 Peruvian departments from 2003 to 2022 to analyze that impact of tourism arrivals, both domestic and foreign, on poverty reduction. Despite the fact that on average, foreign tourism stays longer in a touristic destination than national tourism, our results show that domestic tourism contributes more significantly to poverty reduction than foreign tourism. This is primarily due to the higher volume of domestic tourist compared to international tourist. Additionally, our findings indicate that economic growth is the most influential variable in explaining poverty reduction; while the impact of public spending is relatively minor. In terms of policy implications, these findings highlight the importance of focusing on domestic tourism development in poverty reduction policies.

Exploring the Impact of Tourist Experiences, Satisfaction, and Storytelling Intentions in Thailand’s Andaman Marine and Coastal Destinations: An Empirical Investigation

ABSTRACT Marine and coastal tourism plays a central role in strengthening the Thai economy. This study explores the complex relationship between tourists’ experiences, satisfaction, and storytelling intentions in Thailand’s Andaman marine and coastal destinations. A survey of 389 domestic tourists was used to investigate the key factors influencing satisfaction and their effects on storytelling intentions. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), and Multiple Group Analysis were used to analyze the relationships between the variables. The results show that escapism, entertainment, and esthetics significantly influence satisfaction, while educational elements have no discernible influence. Satisfaction proved to be a crucial mediator between tourists’ experiences and storytelling intentions, regardless of visitors’ status. These findings are significant for the tourism industry, as they help policymakers and destination managers improve visitor experiences and promote positive word-of-mouth marketing. Understanding the factors that influence tourist satisfaction and storytelling intentions will inform strategies for sustainable growth in Thailand’s marine and coastal tourism.

Travel to historical sites as a factor in the development of territorial entrepreneurship and culture of society

This study is devoted to the development of domestic tourism to historical sites, brief descriptions of the most interesting historical sites (estates) are given Moscow and St. Petersburg, as well as the regions of the country. Analytical data on tourist flows in the two capitals for the first nine months of 2023–2024 are presented. The role of tourism development for the segment of small and medium–sized enterprises is outlined.The results of the study are drawn to the disproportionality of the applied preferential programs in different regions of the Russian Federation. The author notes that it is necessary to develop preferential programs based on the incomes and opportunities of the subjects of the Russian Federation, so that no region is left without attention from the Government of the Russian Federation, and the development of tours to historical sites will not only form spiritual values among young people, promote education and enlightenment of families with children, but also It will increase the number of SMEs in all regions of the country and increase their contribution to the territorial and federal budgets.

Evaluating the environmental effects of Japan's tourism: insights into pandemic-induced changes and driving forces

Abstract The intersection of the COVID-19 pandemic and tourism has significantly influenced emissions from supply chains, highlighting a complex dynamic between tourism and climate change. Although the pandemic represents a unique event within a specific timeframe, analyzing its impact on tourism provides valuable insights into the characteristics of tourism carbon footprints (TCF) in the context of sudden public health crises. Accordingly, we used the latest data available from the global multi-regional input–output table of EXIOBASE3 and Japan’s tourist consumption statistics to estimate the TCF from all tourist sources in Japan based on the global economic system, and we visualized the carbon flow caused by population mobility. The decomposition of the environmental impact of the pandemic response further identified the driving forces of TCF changes. The main findings suggested that substantial differences exist in the emission levels and sectoral distributions of TCF between inbound and domestic tourism in Japan. Domestic TCF accounted for the majority of the overall TCF, and it also showed a stronger ability to withstand the pandemic impact, accounting for over 90% of Japan’s TCF during the pandemic. The pandemic greatly reduced the TCF and further exacerbated the driving differences. Prior to the pandemic, Japan’s TCF had diverse driving forces; however, pandemic-induced restrictions magnified the volume effect, especially in the inbound TCF, whereas other effects remained substantial for the domestic TCF.

Sustainable Eco-Tourism in Tinjure Hills: A Spotlight on Nepal's Rhododendron Capital

The main foundation of tourism development in Tinjure, a hilly district of Terhathum, is the vast blooming of rhododendrons across the hills. With 28 species of rhododendrons found in this region, the Tinjure, Milke, and Jaljale areas are known as the " Rhododendron Capital" of Nepal. Among these three areas, Tinjure is the region where the highest number of rhododendrons are found. Domestic tourists visit throughout the year, while both domestic and foreign tourists are drawn to the area during the rhododendron bloom from March to April months. This initiative aims to promote this important tourist destination globally through eco-tourism. The main objective of this study is to explore the foundations of tourism development and identify the challenges of eco-tourism in Tinjure Hills. Primary data were directly taken from the local communities through interview, and self-observation in 2024. Similarly, and books, articles, bulletin, journal, and website materials were used as a secondary data. Additionally, videos produced by Purvi Blues and Entertainment MMC were used as supplementary data to enrich the study. The Tinjure hills offer significant ecotourism potential, boasting diverse attractions, such as rhododendron forests (March-April), summer retreats, panoramic autumnal mountain views, and winter snowfall. This variety caters to broad tourist preferences while showcasing rich biodiversity. Cultural landmarks, including the iconic rhododendron and Tinjure Pathivara Temple, appeal to domestic visitors. Both domestic and international tourist numbers have been increasing annually. Infrastructure improvements support ecotourism growth. To attract international tourists, strategic planning, policy development, and research on visitor behavior and service optimization are crucial for sectoral advancement.

EXPLORING THE TOURIST ATTRACTIVENESS OF CULTURAL SITES: THE CASE OF KAZAKHSTAN

The article examines the components contributing to the tourist appeal of cultural sites in the Republic of Kazakhstan, exploring the intricate relationship between their attractiveness and cultural significance. This is vital for promoting sustainable tourism, fostering cultural exchange, and preserving shared cultural heritage for future generations. Understanding what makes a place attractive to tourists is crucial for destination marketing, sustainable tourism planning, and revenue generation. The study was conducted in the context of the search for ways to popularize cultural heritage in domestic tourism. Fifteen distinct variables were identified to delineate the allure of these sites, encompassing criteria such as historical significance, aesthetic and architectural value, integration of a cultural object with the natural landscape and environment, involvement of the local community in the promotion and preservation of cultural heritage, among others. A comprehensive questionnaire was devised based on these variables, serving as the foundation for a survey where participants rated the significance of each variable on a 5-point scale. The survey garnered responses from 1,728 residents spanning all regions of Kazakhstan. Through correlation analysis, the acquired ratings were scrutinized, unveiling interconnections among variables and elucidating the primary factors shaping the attractiveness of cultural sites, namely safety and security at the site, the historical significance, accessibility for people with special needs, aesthetic and architectural value, as well as the availability of amenities such as restrooms, information centers, and guided tours.

THE STATE OF TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN TRANSFRONTIER CONSERVATION AREAS IN SOUTHERN AFRICA

This study adopts a cross-border approach to examining the state of tourism development within the context of Transfrontier conservation areas, based on three case study sites (Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe). In-depth interviews conducted with 58 wildlife tourism stakeholders, including tourism businesses, conservation NGOs, community representatives, and governing authorities, demonstrate that while natural resources constitute the basis of the tourism economies, the level of development and ownership of tourism offerings differs significantly among the three destinations. Additionally, while international and regional tourists have been the dominant market for these destinations, there is a strong emergence of domestic tourists stemming from the post-pandemic era. The unbalanced scale of tourism development in the three destinations demonstrates that closer attention must be paid to tourism policies and practices that support the inclusion of local entrepreneurs in the tourism sector to generate a greater localised socioeconomic impact and align stakeholder interests.

The Role of Architectural Landmarks in the City Identity of Pokhara

Pokhara, with its astonishing natural beauty, mysterious cultural heritage, religious sites, and adventure sports, embodies the essence of a tourist city. Recently declared as a tourism capital of Nepal, it stands as a testament to its allure and attractions. Architectural landmarks are also serving and emerging as popular tourist attractions. As architectural landmarks form a major part of tourism, their role in city identity should be recognized. This paper aims to study such architectural landmarks in terms of their role in city identity by analyzing three different cases from Pokhara, Nepal. Key informant interviews were held with officials from each landmark, along with a questionnaire survey of visitors. Data were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. The results show that architectural landmarks significantly contribute to the city's identity by providing a unique identity, complimenting natural beauty, discovering unexplored places, and providing settings for various activities. The study further unveils that the majority of visitors comprise domestic tourists, also emphasizes the significance of digital marketing and the visitors' opinion towards the addition of more architectural landmarks into the cityscape. Therefore, the study offers stakeholders with valuable insights into the potential ofarchitectural landmarks to promote the identity of Pokhara as a tourist destination.

A Study on the Utilization of Artificial Intelligence in the Domestic Tourism Industry

A Study on the Utilization of Artificial Intelligence in the Domestic Tourism Industry

Influencial factors of domestic tourists‘ intention to choose wellness-tourism destinations in Vietnam

Purpose: Determine the impact of influencial factors on the intention to choose wellness tourism destination in Vietnam of domestic tourists. Method: The research used mixed methods which include quantity and quality methods. Desk research was firstly used to synthesize research background and develop research model. After that, a survey was implemented to collect data to test the hypothesis. Finally, focus group discussion was used to collect opinions of policy makers, tourism specialists on solutions to enhance domestic tourists’ intention to choose wellness tourism destination in Vietnam. Result: The result of the study shows that there are 4 factors affects the intention of domestic tourists’ in choosing wellness tourism destination in Vietnam: Attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control and destination image. In which perceived behavioral control has the strongest impact and destination image is the only factor that has negative impact. Some solutions have been proposed to to optimize the impact factors, contributing to the promotion of sustainable development of wellness tourism in Vietnam. Contribution: The study makes contribution to clarifying the factors influencing domestic tourists' intention to choose wellness-tourism destinations in Vietnam which are attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control and destination image. Based on the analysis results, some practical solutions to enhance domestic tourists' intention to choose wellness tourism destination in Vietnam were proposed: raising awareness of behavioral control by providing detailed information, developing flexible service packages, and improving infrastructure so that tourists feel autonomous and comfortable when deciding; enhancing subjective norms by encouraging sharing of travel experiences on social networks, cooperating with KOLs, and organizing group travel programs to take advantage of community influence; improving tourists' attitudes by diversifying and improving the quality of tourism products, building a positive environment at the destination, and promoting the benefits of wellness tourism; and improving the destination's image through strong communication campaigns, developing unique experience programs, and cooperating with international organizations to certify quality, create prestige, and attract tourists.

Analyzing Instagram Engagement to Forecast Domestic Tourist Trips in Lake Toba and North Sumatra

The tourism industry is well known as one booster for economic development. The advance of the tourism industry will lead to the improvement of other economic sectors. Therefore, the Indonesian government is taking steps to ensure the development of its tourism industry by launching 10 super-priority destinations (DSP). Despite numerous efforts and interventions, evidence suggests that the demand for the tourism industry in certain DSPs remains unsatisfied. This also holds true for Lake Toba in North Sumatra. Therefore, it is important to understand how to promote the destination site effectively and increase the number of domestic visitors. This study is aimed at assessing the impact of digital marketing through Instagram to determine the number of domestic tourist trips. The engagement rate (ER) on Instagram posts represents the impact of digital marketing. The result reveals that the topic 'cultural tourism and its activities that develop the economy' has the highest average ER, reaching 692.48. Further analysis reveals that the LSTM model, with independent variables TPK, GTI, and ER on the topic of 'ticket information and vacation packages', is the most effective model for predicting the number of domestic tourist trips to North Sumatra. This analysis emphasizes the crucial role of digital marketing to shape the demand for the tourism industry. The conclusion is based on the significant influence of the Google Trends Index (GTI) and ER on Instagram posts, which serve as a gauge for domestic visitor numbers. The related stakeholders must consider this aspect to sustain its business.

Destination Image of Lake Salda in the Lens of Tourists and Locals

Salda, included in the World's Top 100 Geological Heritage List in 2024 and declared as the representative of Mars on Earth, is a remarkable destination thanks to its natural beauty and rare features. The number of visitors seeking to discover this unique destination is increasing day by day, driven by its uniqueness and promotional activities. In this context, it is important to determine the image of this destination. The study aims to determine the destination image of Lake Salda from the perspective of domestic tourists and locals. A qualitative research design was adopted, and interviews were conducted with a total of 30 participants using the purposeful sampling technique. The data was examined through reflexive thematic analysis using the MaxQDA program. It was concluded that Lake Salda has a positive destination image with its natural beauties and safe environmental perception, but the problems experienced in the conservation and promotional processes of the area, the deficiencies in the infrastructure and superstructure in the destination, and the unconscious behaviors of individuals are factors that negatively affect this image. Future studies can examine the sustainability of the destination in more detail, determine strategies for awareness-raising practices, and focus on the current status of alternative accommodation opportunities in the area.